Skin smoothing surgery - series

The skin may be treated with ointment, a
wet or waxy dressing, dry treatment, or some combination of
these. The skin will be quite red and swollen, and eating and
talking may be difficult. There may be some aching, tingling,
or burning for a while after surgery. Pain can be controlled
with medications. The swelling will subside within two to three
weeks. A crust will form over the treated area as it begins to
heal, and will fall off presenting a new layer of tight, pink
skin underneath. If ointment is applied immediately after
surgery, little or no crust will form. The skin will itch as
new skin starts to grow. The freckles sometimes disappear in
the treated area, but may return. The dermabraded skin may
develop whiteheads (milia) after dermabrasion which usually
disappear. Enlarged skin pores may also develop but usually
shrink to normal size once the swelling has subsided. If the
treated skin remains red, elevated, and itches after healing
has started, this may be a sign that abnormal scars are
beginning to form. The surgeon will provide treatment which can
be started early. For men, shaving will be delayed, then an
electric razor is used at first. For several weeks, the new
skin layer will be a bit swollen, sensitive, and bright pink.
Normal activities may be resumed and the patient can be back at
work in about two weeks. Avoid any activity that could cause a
bump to the treated area for at least 2 weeks; ball sports are
to be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Stick to indoor pools to avoid
sun and wind, and keep the face out of chlorinated water for at
least 4 weeks. For 3 to 4 weeks the patient will experience a
red flush with alcohol consumption. It is important to protect
the skin from the sun for 6 to 12 months until the pigment has
completely returned. The skin pinkness will take about 3 months
to fade. Hypo-allergenic make-up may be worn to conceal the
scar. When full repigmentation occurs, the color should closely
match the surrounding skin, making the procedure virtually
undetectable.

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